engine MAZDA MIATA 1997 Factory Repair Manual

Cracks Or Tears In Belt Surface
Missing, Damaged, Cracked Or Rounded Teeth
Oil Contamination
Damaged Or Faulty Tensioners
Incorrect Tension Adjustment
SERVICE POINT LOCATIONS
Fig. 2: Service Point Locations
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTOR OF AMERICA, INC.
LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS
LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS
MaterialConditionSpecification
Engine Oil (1) Ambient Temperature Above -10°
F (-23°C) To Over 100°F (38°C)SAE 10W-30
Engine Oil (1) Ambient Temperature Less Than -
10°F (-23°C) To 60°F (16°C)SAE 5W-30
Engine CoolantAbove 3°F (-16°C) Above -15°F
(-26°C) Above -40°F (-40°C)35/65 Mixture 45/55 Mixture
55/45 Mixture Distilled Water
Ethylene Glycol
Brake FluidAllDOT 3
Automatic Transaxle FluidAllATF M-III or DEXRON II
Manual Transaxle FluidAllHypoid Gear Oil API
Classification GL-4 or GL-5 SAE
75W-90 Above 50°F (10°C):
80W-90
A/C RefrigerantAllR-134a

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FLUID CAPACITIES
FLUID CAPACITIES
WHEEL & TIRE SPECIFICATIONS
WHEEL TIGHTENING
Tighten wheel lug nuts to 65-87 ft. lbs. (88-118 N.m).
BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS
Vehicle is equipped with a special 9 9/16" x 4 3/4" x 7 3/8" 12-volt battery that is vented to outside of vehicle.
CAUTIONS & WARNINGS
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (AIR BAG)
Modifications or improper maintenance, including incorrect removal and installation of the Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS), can adversely affect system performance. DO NOT cover, obstruct or change the
steerin
g wheel horn pad in any way, as such action could cause improper function of the system. Use only plain
(1)Energy conserving oils are recommended, API classification SG", "SH".
ItemConditionSpecification (1)
Engine OilDrained, With Filter4.0 Qts. (3.8L)
Engine OilDrained3.8 Qts. (3.6L)
Engine CoolantDrained6.3 Qts. (6.0L)
Automatic Transaxle FluidCapacity7.1 Qts. (6.7L)
Manual Transaxle FluidCapacity2.1 Qts. (2.0L)
Rear Axle OilCapacity1.1 Qts. (l.0L)
A/C RefrigerantEvacuated1 lb. 3.4 oz. (0.6kg)
Fuel TankCapacity12.6 Gal. (48.0L)
(1)Capacities are recommended or calculated levels. Always use dipstick (if available) to measure level.
CAUTION: When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may
lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems
may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn
procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the
GENERAL INFORMATION Section.
NOTE: See the AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY
EQUIPMENT Section.

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REPLACING BLOWN FUSES
BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS
ENGINE OIL
FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE WARNING:When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may
lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems
may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn
procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL
INFORMATION section.
CAUTION: Before replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and
accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse
with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect
amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system
overload.
CAUTION: Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake
pads need replacement.
CAUTION: Continued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause
converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to converter and
vehicle.
CAUTION: Any modification to the exhaust system on turbo models, which reduces
exhaust backpressure, will lead to lean fuel mixtures and excessive spark
advance. This could cause serious engine damage.
WARNING:Many solid state electrical components can be damaged by static
electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not.
Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on
the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component.
CAUTION: Never use non-detergent or straight mineral oil.

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HALOGEN BULBS
HEADLIGHT RETRACTOR
RADIATOR CAP
RADIATOR FAN
WARRANTY INFORMATION
BASIC NEW CAR WARRANTY
Basic components are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for 36 months or 50,000 miles,
whichever occurs first. Tires are covered by a separate warranty offered by tire manufacturer.
ANTI-PERFORATION WARRANTY
Covers body sheet metal panels for 60 months, regardless of mileage, against perforation due to corrosion.
SAFETY RESTRAINT SYSTEM WARRANTY WARNING:Relieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system
component (fuel injection models).
WARNING:Halogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated.
DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection
should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs.
CAUTION: If headlight retractor freezes during cold weather operation, DO NOT
attempt to force mechanism. Headlights should be kept raised at all times
in cold weather. To raise them, use only headlight retractor switch. DO
NOT use headlight switch.
CAUTION: Always disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The
fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the
ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap
when cooling system is hot.
WARNING:Keep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic
switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine
is turned off.
CAUTION: Always refer to customer's copy of warranty information for specific
model application and/or coverage limitations.

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Supplemental air bag system, seat belts and related components are warranted for 5 years or 60,000 miles,
whichever comes first, against defects in materials and workmanship.
REPLACEMENT PARTS & ACCESSORIES
Manufacturer-supplied parts and accessories are warranted against defects in material or workmanship for 12
months without regard to mileage. If installed by a Mazda dealer, part or accessory will be repaired or replaced
without charge during warranty period. If not installed by a dealer, part or accessory will be repaired or replaced
without charge for parts, but labor cost will be responsibility of owner.
EMISSION DEFECT WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)
Warrants that vehicle was designed, built and equipped to conform with applicable Federal emission regulations
at time of sale and that vehicle is free of defects in materials and workmanship which may cause vehicle to fail
to conform with applicable regulations for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
EMISSION PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)
Covers all repairs, adjustments and replacements if vehicle fails to conform to applicable emission standards
and such failure results in vehicle owner bearing a penalty or other sanction under local, state or Federal law.
Warranty period is 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. After 2 years or 24,000 miles, manufacturer
will make necessary adjustments, repairs and replacements at no cost to owner only when noncompliance is
caused by failure of components which have been installed in vehicle for sole or primary purpose of reducing
vehicle emissions. See copy of warranty for specific components covered.
EMISSION DEFECT WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)
For 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first, any defective emission-related part on vehicle will be
repaired or replaced by manufacturer at no cost to owner. Certain emission-related parts are covered for repair
or replacement for 7 years or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first. See copy of warranty for specific
components covered.
EMISSION PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)
For 3 years or 50,000 miles, manufacturer will make all necessary repairs and adjustments to ensure vehicle
passes a required Smog Check inspection.
FUSES & CIRCUIT BREAKERS
FUSE PANEL LOCATION
Fuse box is located above driver's left knee, accessible through a removable cover. The main fuse block is
located at the right rear of the engine compartment.
The Trunk Mounted Fuse Panel is located on the ri
ght side of the trunk, near the trunk hinge.

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STEERING SYSTEM - POWER RACK & PINION
1997 STEERING Mazda Power Rack & Pinion
DESCRIPTION
Steering system is a power-assisted rack and pinion. The system consists of a rack and pinion steering gear and
power-assist pump/reservoir. The steering gear and pump/reservoir are connected by flexible lines.
TESTING
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM PRESSURE TEST
Pump Fluid Pressure Test
1. Disconnect pressure line from steering gear and steering pump. Connect pressure gauge/valve between
steering pump and steering gear. See Fig. 1
. Bleed air from system.
2. Completely open valve. Start engine and operate at idle. Turn steering wheel from lock to lock to increase
fluid temperature to 122-140°F (50-60°C). To measure pump fluid pressure, close gauge valve
completely.
3. Increase engine speed to 1000-1500 RPM. Measure oil pump fluid pressure. Ensure pump pressure is
within specification. See HYDRAULIC SYSTEM FLUID PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS
table. If
pressure is not within specification, replace pump.
CAUTION: DO NOT leave gauge valve closed for more than 15 seconds, or pump may
be damaged.

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
STEERING SYSTEM - POWER RACK & PINION 1997 STEERING Mazda Power Rack & Pinion

1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
STEERING SYSTEM - POWER RACK & PINION 1997 STEERING Mazda Power Rack & Pinion
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Fig. 1: Connecting Pressure Gauge/Valve (Typical)
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Gear Fluid Pressure Test
1. Ensure steering pump pressure is within specification. See PUMP FLUID PRESSURE TEST . To
measure steering gear fluid pressure, open gauge valve completely. Increase engine speed to 1000-1500
RPM.
2. Turn steering wheel from lock to lock. Measure steering gear fluid pressure. Ensure gear pressure is
within specification. See HYDRAULIC SYSTEM FLUID PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS
table. If
pressure is not within specification, replace gear.
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM FLUID PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS
(1)
Applicationpsi (kg/cm2 )
Miata & MPV1102-1209 (77-85)
MX-31138-1152 (80-81)
Millenia, MX-6 & 6261209-1280 (85-90)
Protege1244-1350 (87-95)
RX71110-1209 (78-85)
9291066-1137 (75-80)
(1)Specifications are measured at 1000-1500 RPM, with fluid temperature at 122-140°F (50-60°C).

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LUBRICATION
FLUID CAPACITY
POWER STEERING FLUID CAPACITY
FLUID TYPE
Dexron-II or Mazda M-III fluid is recommended for all models.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
Check fluid level on oil pump dipstick (if equipped) or reservoir. Fluid should be between marks on level gauge
dipstick (if equipped) or reservoir. If fluid level is low, fill as necessary. Recheck fluid level. DO NOT overfill.
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING
1. Raise and support front of vehicle. With ignition off, turn steering wheel from lock to lock several times.
Check fluid level. Add fluid as necessary. Repeat procedure until fluid level no longer decreases.
2. Start engine and operate at idle. Turn steering wheel from lock to lock 5 times. Check fluid level. Add
fluid as necessary. Continue procedure until fluid is clear of air bubbles and does not decrease in level.
ADJUSTMENTS
PINION PRELOAD
Miata & Protege
1. Ensure steering rack is in center position. Using Protractor (49-D032-316 ) and a torque wrench, tighten
adjusting cover to 43 INCH lbs. (4.9 N.m), then loosen adjusting cover. See Fig. 2
. Repeat loosening and
ti
ghtening procedure 3 times. After tightening adjusting cover the third time, loosen adjusting cover 25
ApplicationQts. (L)
Miata & Protege.85 (.80)
MPV.95 (.90)
MX-3
4-Cylinder.85 (.80)
V61.27 (1.20)
Millenia, MX-6 & 6261.32 (1.25)
RX71.01 (.96)
9291.80 (1.70)
NOTE: Pinion preload should be checked when steering gear assembly has been
disassembled or overhauled. Check preload after steering gear assembly has
been reassembled, but tie rods have not yet been installed.

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frame mounting bolts. Remove steering gear and linkage from vehicle. On MPV, remove steering gear
bracket-to-frame mounting bolts. Remove steering gear and linkage with steering bracket from vehicle.
Remove 4 steering gear-to-bracket bolts and separate gear from bracket.
4. On all models, to install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten bolts to specification. See TORQUE
SPECIFICATIONS table. On MPV, tighten steering gear-to-bracket bolts in sequence: left front, right
front, left rear, right rear. On all models, fill and bleed power steering system. Check and adjust front
wheel alignment. See SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.
Removal & Installation (Millenia)
1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Support engine using Engine Support (49-G017-5A0 ). Raise and
support front of vehicle. Remove front wheel assemblies. Remove cotter pins and castle nuts from tie rod
ends.
2. Using Puller Set (49-T028-3A0 ), separate tie rod ends from steering knuckles. Remove transverse
member bolts and remove transverse member. See Fig. 6
Disconnect pressure and return line connections
from steering gear. Remove intermediate shaft pinch bolt.
3. Reference mark lower steering column-to-intermediate shaft. Remove engine mount member. Remove
No. 1 engine mount bolts. Remove upper lateral link bolt and separate upper lateral link from
crossmember. Remove lower control arm-to-crossmember mounting bolt and gusset. Separate lower
control arm from crossmember.
4. Remove stabilizer link-to-lower control arm nut. Separate stabilizer link from lower control arm. Using a
jack, support front suspension crossmember. Remove crossmember retaining nuts. Carefully lower
crossmember. Disconnect stabilizer link from stabilizer bar. Remove stabilizer bar brackets, bushings and
stabilizer bar. Remove steering gear mounting nuts. Remove steering gear assembly.
5. To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
table. Tighten steering gear mounting nuts in sequence: right front, left rear, right rear, left front. Fill and
bleed power steering system. Check and adjust front wheel alignment. See SPECIFICATIONS &
PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.

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Fig. 6: Removing Steering Gear Assembly (Millenia)
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Removal & Installation (MX-3 & Protege)
1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Raise and support front of vehicle. Remove front wheel assemblies.
Remove engine undercover. Remove cotter pins and castle nuts from tie rod ends.
2. Using Puller Set (49-T028-3A0 ), separate tie rod ends from steering knuckles. On MX-3 DOHC, remove
support bracket bolt, nut and rubber insulator. Remove steering gear insulator bolts and remove insulator.
On all models, remove intermediate shaft dust cover.
3. Mark steering column intermediate shaft-to-steering column gear pinion for installation reference.
Remove steering column intermediate shaft-to-steering gear pinion shaft bolt. Disconnect pressure and
return line connections from steering gear.
4. On M/T, remove mounting nuts and bolts from extension bar and control rod. Remove extension rod and
control rod. On all models, remove steering gear mounting nuts. Remove steering gear and linkage from

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